Fair Judge and Steward Opportunities

What is the difference between a judge and a steward?

A judge evaluates entries against a standard, whether that is a quilt, a jar of preserves, a market animal or a showmanship class. A steward is more of an organizer on the floor. Stewards help classes run on time, keep order, assist judges, and make sure rules are followed.

Titles and duties differ among fairs and among departments, such as horses, livestock, home arts and horticulture. Ask the department superintendent what each role means at that fair.

At some fairs a single person does both jobs in smaller departments. At large fairs, a superintendent oversees each department and assigns judges and stewards, so that is usually the first person to contact.

What qualifications do judges need?

There is no single national rule. Some departments hire judges with professional experience, extension credentials or breed association training. Others use experienced volunteers from the community. Livestock, horse and open class judging may require specific certifications set by the fair or a breed or sport association.

Ask the fair or the department superintendent for its requirements. Your state's land-grant university extension office, 4-H program or relevant association can also tell you about training and approved judge lists.

Many judges also keep learning by reading current rulebooks and attending clinics. Standards change over time, so a judge who stays current serves entrants better and can explain decisions with confidence.

• Subject knowledge in the class area
• Training or certification the department requires
• Experience observing and scoring competitions
• Ability to explain decisions kindly and clearly
• No conflict of interest with entrants

How do people get started?

Many begin as stewards, ring helpers or exhibitors. Watching experienced judges at work and asking questions teaches a lot. Extension offices and associations often run judging workshops, and some state fair associations hold training.

Contact the department superintendent in the spring or earlier, since judges are usually booked well ahead. Offer a short description of your background and say which classes interest you.

Be patient, since openings may be limited and many departments reuse trusted judges year after year. Showing up as a reliable helper is often the best way to be considered later.

How do judges stay fair?

Fair competition depends on honesty. Judges must avoid conflicts of interest, such as judging relatives or close friends, and many fairs require disclosure. They follow the published class descriptions and score sheets and base results on what is in front of them.

Judges do not discuss results before they are official. They treat entrants of every age with respect. For young exhibitors especially, a kind and useful comment can matter more than the ribbon.

Written comments on score sheets are a gift to exhibitors, especially young ones. Aim to name something done well before suggesting something to improve, and keep language plain and respectful.

What do stewards do on competition day?

Stewards check that entries are in the right class, call classes on time, keep records, and help judges and exhibitors with questions. They stay calm when plans change, such as when weather delays an event.

They also protect safety. In livestock and horse areas, stewards watch for hazards and help manage crowds, always following the fair's rules and the animal welfare guidance in the official rulebooks.

Good stewards also keep a short list of who to call, such as the superintendent, first aid and fair security, so a problem in a class does not slow the whole show.

How are judges and stewards compensated?

Practices vary. Some fairs pay a stipend or cover travel and meals. Others rely on volunteers. Ask the organizer directly rather than assuming. Be aware that a few roles may involve contracts or conflict of interest rules.

Do not accept gifts from entrants. Follow the fair's policy and keep your decisions clear of outside influence.

What should you do before you say yes?

Ask for the class list, the rules, the timing and the expectations about conduct. Know whether you may be asked to explain your decisions to entrants or handle protests. Read the rulebook for the department.

If you are nervous, ask to shadow an experienced judge first. Most departments appreciate someone who prepares before the fair starts.

Ask whether the fair offers a judges' meeting before the show to review rules and schedule. These meetings answer many questions in one place and help everyone start on the same page.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the County Fair & Rodeo Guide Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.